Whether you live in a small apartment by choice or necessity, you may be feeling that smaller interior spaces don’t get the attention they deserve in the architectural magazines. That’s a shame, because there are so many great ideas out there that can save you time, money, and space. Even though there is no “magic formula” when it comes to designing a small home, apartment, or room, there are a few keys to successful design that can help to get you on your way to living in a space that expresses style and exudes comfortable living.
Start with a Blank Canvas
Before you get started, it’s a good idea to clear your “canvas”—the space in which you are going to be working. Take all furniture, area rugs, and wall and window treatments, and find somewhere else to keep them while you examine the space to determine how to best proceed. If you live in a city apartment and don’t have anywhere else to put your things while you work, check out USstoragesearch.com to find a storage center close to your location.
Paint a Bright Space
One of the best ways to expand a space is by painting it in clear, bright colors. Choose a palette of sharp colors, such as hot reds, electric blues, yellows, and greens. Bring focus to the space by bringing splashes of color to areas such as a radiator, the inside of a bookshelf, or a windowsill to bring a touch of excitement and depth to the space. If you have a foyer or hall, try painting that area a dark color, easing into lighter shades in the living room. This will make the living spaces feel larger by comparison.
Painting one wall a different or deeper shade that the others can work wonders in a small space. Don’t be afraid of bold colors. A darker color on one wall has a receding effect, making the space look larger.
Unconventional Storage Solutions
A major aspect of organizing any smaller living space is finding storage solutions that work for you. There are a million different ways to maximize space by utilizing unconventional storage solutions while still staying within your budget. Try finding cool and unusual storage bins at yard sales, such as old wooden filing cabinets and vintage tool organizers. Shelving is also going to be an important element of any storage solution in a smaller living space. There are many neat and unusual options available out on the market. For a contemporary look, try stackable cube shelving, which also is great for fitting into asymmetrical spaces.
Finishing Touches
To complete the look of your gorgeous new interior space, try embedding multi-functional furniture, adding colorful graphic art or paintings that complement your interior paint work, lighting fixtures, and flower arrangements that contribute to a comfortable, livable feel and a personalized space that works together to express your personal style and allows you to live clutter-free.
